Lead Host

The Longboard; Sullivan's Island (SC); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The Longboard Sullivan’s Island is seeking a Lead Host/Maitre D to set the tone, welcome guests, and help guide our host team. You will master the flow of a busy dining room and ensure every guest feels the Caribbean-inspired hospitality we’re known for.

As the Lead Host, you’ll manage reservations, keep service moving smoothly, and build real connections with guests from regulars to first‑timers. If you bring energy, leadership, and a love for hospitality, join Ballast Hospitality.

Qualifications

• 1+ year host/restaurant experience preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong work ethic, hospitality focus, collaborative attitude.
• Organized and professional in approach.
• Able to stand/walk for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Create flawless first and last impressions for every guest.
• Lead the host stand and guide the team through service.
• Set the tone with real, personalized guest connections.
• Manage reservations, flow of service, and phone calls.
• Maintain rhythm and adapt space usage during shifts.
• Communicate delays or wait times and keep guests informed.
• Collaborate with management to resolve guest feedback.
• Keep the space clean, organized, and ready to go.

Skills

Host experience

Communication skills

Hospitality mindset

Organizational skills

Stamina standing/walking

Adaptability

Feedback receptive

Job description

THE LONGBOARD [SULLIVAN’S ISLAND] -LEAD HOST / MAITRE D

THE ATMOSPHERE

The Longboard Sullivan’s Island is the second iteration of our celebrated coastal dining concept, first launched in 2015 on St. John, USVI. Echoing the island vibes of our flagship, the Sullivan’s Island location offers refined, seafood-forward fare alongside a vibrant bar program featuring Caribbean-inspired craft cocktails. Our setting blends laid‑back Lowcountry charm with spirited Caribbean energy to create a relaxed, yet elevated dining experience. Our restaurants are more than places to eat— they’re destinations to experience. We bring the vibes, the views, and the hospitality to match. With locations across the U.S. Virgin Islands and beyond, we’re all about blending world‑class service with the soul of the Caribbean.

THE IDEAL MATCH

The ideal candidate is a practiced problem solver, maintains a calm demeanor under pressure, persists in getting the job done, and enjoys working alongside a large team to improve performance and increase retention. First impressions are everything—and last impressions stick. At The Longboard, our hosts are the ultimate vibe‑check: warm, professional, and completely in their element. We’re looking for standout personalities who are genuinely excited to serve up knowledgeable, friendly, and approachable hospitality. Our lead host will set the tone, maintain the flow of service, and help guide the rest of our host team. Bring your energy, lead the vibe, match our standards, and always elevate the room!

BALANCED HOSPITALITY

The Longboard Sullivans Island brings a fresh, vibrant take on coastal Caribbean dining—where tropical, casual vibes meet elevated experiences. Our restaurants are destinations that blend music, sunshine, island flavors, and top‑tier hospitality into unforgettable moments. We’re laid‑back but dialed‑in. Professional but never stuffy. Every guest is welcomed like family— and we take that seriously.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Create flawless first and last impressions for every guest who walks through our doors.
• Take charge of the host stand and lead your team through a seamless service.
• Set the tone by making real, personalized connections with everyone - from regulars to first timers.
• Manage reservation systems, flow of service, and phones.
• Keep the restaurant balanced and maintain a rhythm throughout the day.
• Find creative ways to maximize our space and adapt to a fast‑moving floor plan.
• Maintain open communication with guests with any delays or wait times – always keep them in the loop!
• Recognize the familiar faces of our industry partners and VIP guests, ensuring their visit is flawless and perfectly aligned with our hospitality standards.
• Good vibes only: prioritize respectful, open, and positive communication with the whole team.
• Collaborate effortlessly with your colleagues. Support your floor team and always lend hands when needed!
• Partner with management promptly to resolve any guest feedback or operational challenges.
• Keep the space crisp, clean, and clutter‑free. Stay organized, stocked, and ready to go.
• Know the ballast background and what makes us tick! Our story is what sets us apart.
• Show up to show out. Look sharp, follow the dress code, and bring your best self to every shift.

ROLE REQUIRMENTS

• Minimum 1 year of host and/or restaurant experience (preferred)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must possess an exceptional work ethic, a strong sense of hospitality, and a collaborative attitude.
• Ability to work in an organized and professional manner.
• Able to work in a standing/walking position for long periods of time.
• Ability to demonstrate quick thinking and adaptability in a constantly changing environment.
• Receptive to constructive criticism and performance feedback.

OUR DNA

At our core, we live by values that shape every interaction, decision, and experience. We offer competitive pay and a culture that values growth. From day one, we’re committed to your personal and professional development through hands‑on experience, ongoing training, and clear opportunities to advance. At Ballast Hospitality, when you grow, we grow.

• Integrity is everything.Without it, nothing else matters. We lead with honesty, accountability, and trust. Always doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching.
• We invest in growth.Continuous training and development aren’t extras; they’re essential to our shared success. We see ongoing learning and development as an investment, not just in our team, but in our future.
• Creativity drives innovation.Innovation starts with imagination. We embrace fresh ideas and bold thinking to stay ahead and stand out.
• Happy teams serve better.A happy, supported, and professional team creates the kind of guest experience that sets us apart and empowers us to deliver exceptional experiences.
• We deliver legendary service.The kind of personalized care that turns moments into memories, experiences guests can’t forget, and rave about long after they leave.
• Work hard, stay sharp, and have fun.We bring passion and professionalism to everything we do while keeping it light, positive, and full of energy. Excellence and enjoyment go hand‑in‑hand.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER | COME AS YOU ARE

At The Longboard Sullivan’s Island, we believe great hospitality starts with great people, and that means all people. We don’t care what you look like, where you’re from, who you love, or how you identify. If you have good energy and a passion for making people feel welcome, you’ve got a spot on our team. No judgment. No discrimination. Just good vibes and equal opportunity for all.

READY TO SET THE VIBE?

At The Longboard, we believe our team is the heart of everything we do. If you’re a passionate hospitality‑driven leader with a creative eye and ready to help shape the experience at one of Sullivan Island’s most exciting destinations— this is your moment.

Join Ballast Hospitality in creating standout dining experiences that celebrate sunshine, culture, and connection— one guest at a time. We look forward to meeting you!